Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Medicine - Dr. Katie Clow
PhD Opportunity: Impact of climatic hazards on companion animal health (Posted June 2026)
Advisor
Project Description
A 3-year PhD opportunity, commencing in January 2027, is available in Applied Epidemiological Research Laboratory (AEROH) in the Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College. The primary advisor is Dr. Katie Clow.
Our climate is undergoing unprecedented changes due significant elevation in greenhouse gas emissions associated with anthropogenic activities. Increased frequency and/or severity of heat extremes, droughts, floods, and extreme weather events (e.g., wildfires, tropical cyclones) have all been documented, as well as sea level rise, worsening air pollution and ocean acidification. Health impacts of these climatic changes have been well characterized for humans but to date, there is limited research on the health impacts on dogs, cats, and horses (herein referred to as companion animals). Targeted companion animal research is critically needed to accurately characterize these health impacts for early intervention and future monitoring, prevention and adaptation.
Student Qualifications
The general focus of this PhD will be on companion animal health impacts associated with climatic hazards. The specific focus including populations of interest, climatic hazards of focus, and epidemiological study design and data analyses will be co-created by the advisor and successful candidate to align with the candidate’s experience and professional goals. The successful candidate will develop an expertise in climate change science, companion animal population health, and advanced epidemiological methods.
Applicants with a strong background in animal health and epidemiology are encouraged to apply. Applicants must have an MSc in Epidemiology or related field and/or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Selection of the successful candidate is based on a combination of academic excellence, relevant experience and career goals and referees’ evaluations. Stipend will be $25,000 per annum for three years, plus any scholarships secured by the candidate. Domestic, permanent resident, and international applicants are eligible. Applicants must meet the academic standards for admission to the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of Guelph.
Application Process
To apply, please initially submit a cover letter indicating your interest in the project and relevant experience, an unofficial transcript, a full curriculum vitae (CV), and contact information for two references to Dr. Katie Clow (kclow@uoguelph.ca.) For your application to be considered, you must include “PhD climate hazards and companion animals” in the subject line.
Review of applications will begin on July 15, 2026, and continue on a rolling basis until a successful candidate is chosen. Only those deemed suitable for the position will be contacted.
Additional information concerning graduate studies in the Department of Population Medicine is available at: https://www.uoguelph.ca/graduatestudies/programs/popmed
The University of Guelph is committed to an Employment Equity Program that includes special measures to achieve diversity among its faculty and staff. We therefore particularly encourage applications from qualified aboriginal Canadians, members of the LGBTQ2IA+ community, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities.
